Scientist Material Science – Decatur, IL

Department/Function Research & Development Job Description

There is a full‑time exempt level position. ADM, a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company, has an opening for a Scientist in the Material Science Team located at our R&D center in Decatur, IL.

The Material Science R&D team is looking for a highly motivated scientist with a strong background in ingredient characterization to carry out research projects supporting the Human Nutrition R&D team. The successful candidate will work cross functionally with teams to execute advanced characterization of ADM ingredients to drive ingredient innovation and deliver value across the ADM portfolio.

• Plan, organize, and execute material science experimental workplans with the direction of a lead scientist, project leader, or manager to advance product portfolio pipeline
• Execute DOEs and statistics for experiments, including data processing and analysis
• Utilize advanced characterization instrumentation to understand structure-function correlation of ingredients and complex matrices across the ADM ingredient portfolio to build innovative solutions
• Support global cross functional teams with material science characterization requests
• Support equipment maintenance, writing SOPs, and training of advanced lab instrumentation
• Communicate technical data in reports and presentations to broad audiences
• Collaborate with research & development, creation design & development, operations, and commercial teams
• Engage in ADM safety activities by participating in lab audits, job safety assessments, safety engagements and quality to drive R&D safety initiatives
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized working environment in R&D labs

• Master’s or Bachelors and 5 years industry experience in Chemistry, Food Science or related field of study
• Knowledge and experience with advanced analytical instrumentation to characterize ingredients and systems, including particle characterization, spectroscopy, chromatography, thermal analysis, rheology, microscopy and standard wet chemistry techniques
• Ability to work in high paced cross functional team environment while delivering on multiple projects
• Self-motivated and willing to work independently in the laboratory
• Strong problem solving, communication, organization, and documentation skills
• Proficient in scientific data reporting for internal and external stakeholders
• Conduct research projects with safety and quality mindset

Excited about this role but don’t think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

About ADM. At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry‑advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company.

Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at

#Including You Diversity , equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments – environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career.

We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together. We welcome everyone to apply.…